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United States
Colorado
Arapahoe County
Aurora

Sand Creek Regional Greenway

Hard

4.8

(8955)

14,519

runners

Sand Creek Regional Greenway

04:06

39.8km

120m

Running

The Sand Creek Regional Greenway offers a unique jogging experience, weaving through a blend of urban and natural environments. You'll encounter diverse terrain, from paved sections to soft surfaces and crusher fine gravel, as you pass through industrial areas, residential neighborhoods, and natural settings where wildlife can be spotted, especially…

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Bluff Lake Nature Center

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

3.05 km

Morrison Nature Center

Highlight • Natural

The Morrison Nature Center is one of the most beautiful sections of the Sand Creek Greenway. Here, at the banks of Sand Creek, you can spot all kind of wild life throughout the year.

Tip by

2

9.33 km

View of Sand Creek

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great turn around point at the bridge to connect paved and gravel section of Sand Creek Trail.

Tip by

3

15.2 km

Sand Creek Regional Greenway

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Sand Creek Regional Greenway is a 13-mile mostly paved trail that provides the opportunity to experience wilderness in the metro Denver area. There are a bunch of different trailheads …

Tip by

4

19.9 km

South Platte River

Highlight • River

Sand Creek and the South Platte River meet here. Crossing this bridge is a junction for the Sand Creek Trail and the South Platte River Trail, the respective urban trails that follow these rivers.

Tip by

B

39.8 km

End point

Parking

Loading

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

34.1 km

5.56 km

< 100 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

26.4 km

11.2 km

1.90 km

163 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (1,660 m)

Lowest point (1,560 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Thursday 16 July

34°C

20°C

11 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical terrain like for jogging on this greenway?

The terrain varies along the Sand Creek Regional Greenway. You'll find paved or concrete sections, especially in Commerce City and parts of Denver. However, much of the trail through Denver and Aurora consists of a soft surface or crusher fine gravel, which can be dusty when dry. While these softer sections are suitable for running, be aware that some parts may not be plowed after snowstorms, particularly unpaved sections in Aurora.

Is the Sand Creek Regional Greenway suitable for beginners?

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy for jogging due to its largely flat profile. It's a great resource for locals and visitors looking to acclimate to Denver's altitude or for those training for more difficult mountain hikes.

Where can I park to access the trail?

The trail is accessible from various points along its route. While specific parking locations aren't detailed, it connects to numerous neighborhoods and parks, suggesting multiple access points. Look for trailheads in areas like Commerce City, Denver, and Aurora.

Is the trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the Sand Creek Regional Greenway is dog-friendly. Just remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the trail and to protect local wildlife.

What kind of wildlife might I see along the route?

Despite being an 'urban wilderness,' the greenway is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for hawks, deer, beaver, and various bird species, especially around natural areas like Bluff Lake Nature Center, Morrison Nature Center, and Star K Ranch Natural Area.

What is the best time of year to jog on the greenway?

The trail is open year-round from dawn to dusk, offering different experiences throughout the seasons. Spring and fall generally provide pleasant temperatures for jogging. In winter, be aware that some unpaved sections, particularly in Aurora, may not be plowed after snowstorms.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required to use the trail?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the Sand Creek Regional Greenway. It's a public trail, open to everyone.

What are some notable features or points of interest along the way?

The greenway offers a unique blend of urban and natural sights. You'll pass through industrial areas, neighborhoods, and parks, as well as natural areas like Bluff Lake Nature Center and Star K Ranch. Highlights include the Morrison Nature Center, a View of Sand Creek, and the South Platte River. The trail also features tunnels beneath major interstates and old airport runways, and the Sand Creek Regional Greenway Partnership is developing 'Many Destinations' with amenities like climbing structures and shaded benches.

Does the trail connect to other well-known paths in the Denver area?

Yes, the Sand Creek Regional Greenway is a crucial part of the Denver metropolitan area's linked trail system. It connects the South Platte River Greenway to the High Line Canal Trail, forming part of a larger 50-mile loop of off-street urban trails. The route also passes through sections of the Colorado Front Range Trail and the Denver Orbital Trail.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Sand Creek Regional Greenway is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive option for many users to enjoy the outdoors.

What is the typical duration for jogging the entire length of the greenway?

While the full length of the greenway is approximately 13.5 to 14 miles, the specific Komoot tour for jogging covers about 39.7 kilometers (24.7 miles) and typically takes around 4 hours and 6 minutes to complete.

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